1 Peter

Introduction

THINK ABOUT THIS 
Address to Diognetus (Written during the 2nd or 3rd Century) “Christians are not different from the rest in their nationality, language or customs. They live in their own countries but as sojourners. They fulfill all their duties as citizens, but they suffer as foreigners. They find their homeland wherever they are, but their homeland is not in any one place. They are in the flesh but do not live according to the flesh. They live on earth but are citizens of heaven. They obey all laws, but they live higher than that required by law. They love all, but all persecute them”.

 

INTRODUCTION 

In this study, we’ll see how we, as believers, can be filled with hope, and experience God, despite facing difficult and trying circumstances. In fact, Peter communicates that, in the face of opposition, Christians are provided a great opportunity to show the difference Jesus makes in our lives. 

 

Peter is identified as the author of the letter in 1 Peter 1:1. Peter likely wrote the letter with the help of Silas (1 Peter 5:12). The Gospel accounts tell us that Peter was a fisherman from Bethsaida; he and his brother Andrew were among the first to be called to follow Jesus (John 1:43-44). Church history suggests that most of the material from the Gospel of Mark are events and stories dictated to John Mark by the Apostle Peter.  

 

Peter was also heavily involved in the establishment of the early church, where the Book of Acts highlights his ministry in Acts 1-12, before switching to Paul’s missionary journeys from Acts 13 and on. 

 

AUDIENCE 

As seen in 1 Peter 1:1, the letter is written to believers who are in exile throughout Asia Minor. Peter’s intention was that the letter would be read widely and is addressing the whole church, Jew and Gentile Christians, not just one small segment of the community. 

 

TIME 

The letter was written around 62/63 A.D. while Peter was likely in Rome (called Babylon in 1 Pet. 5:13). 

 

MAJOR THEMES 

A key passage that can summarize the entire book is found in 1 Peter 4:12-13. In this passage, Peter reminds us that we should not be caught off guard when we experience hardships, but in fact, we should rejoice in them, because it means we are sharing in the life of Christ. 

Two themes present themselves throughout 1 Peter – suffering and the glory of God. While on the surface it may seem that these two things don’t belong in the same sentence, Peter helps to show us that they can and often do intersect in the life of a Christian. 

 

PURPOSE 

Peter is seeking to bring encouragement and reassurance to Christians who are experiencing persecution and provide insight on how to live in light of it. Peter focuses on our identity in Christ, and how that identity impacts our conduct in the various areas of our lives. Peter encourages us to remain faithful, knowing that God ultimately has the final word, and we can experience eternal glory (1 Pet. 5:10). 

 

OUTLINE OF 1 PETER 

I. Opening Greeting (1:1-2) 

II. Called to Salvation as Exiles (1:3-2:10) 

a. 1:3-5 Our Inheritance  

b. 1:6-9 Rejoice in Suffering 

c. 1:10-12 Privilege of Revelation 

d. 1:13-21 The Basis for Holy Living, Our Future Inheritance 

e. 1:22-2:10 Living as the New People of God 

III. Living as Aliens to Bring Glory to God in a Hostile World (2:11-4:11) 

a. 2:11-12 Christian Life as a Battle and Witness 

b. 2:13-3:12 Demonstrating the Gospel in Our Relationships 

c. 3:13-4:11 How to Respond to Suffering 

IV. Persevering in Suffering (4:12-5:11) 

a. 4:12-19 Persevere in Suffering and Joy 

b. 5:1-5 Exhortations for Elders and Young 

c. 5:6-11 Exhortations to Humility 

V. Concluding Words (5:12-14) 

 

SESSION 1 - 1 Peter 1:1-2

Greeting

1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,

2 according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you.

THINK ABOUT THIS 

• When we walk through our front doors after a long trip, we frequently state, “Home sweet home.” What are we trying to communicate when we use such language? 
• Have you ever had an experience where you may have been “home,” yet you still felt unwelcome, unwanted, or uncertain? 

 

READ & DISCUSS 

1 Peter 1:1-2 

The term “elect exile” creates an interesting connotation. While the readers of this letter were scattered and may have felt things were in ruin, Peter doesn’t allow geographical separation and difficult circumstances to take away from an eternal perspective. This week we explore our security in God’s plan of salvation. 

Within this passage, we see some large theological terms that carry great importance.  

Elect: Generally, refers to either the members of God’s people or to those within a local church. As we see within 1 Peter, it is addressing the creation of a people, rather than a calling of an isolated individual. God’s people are privileged people, for they have direct access to Him, are saved by Him, and have Him there to uphold them through all trials. What does it mean to be “chosen” or “elect?” For further clarification see: John 15:16; Acts 13:17; Romans 8:28-30; Ephesians 1:3-5; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14. 

Exiles: The removal of an individual from one’s native land. Typically done in instances when one conquers another. The usage of the term “exile” would conjure up images for the original audience of the captivity the Jews experienced underneath the rule of Babylon (as highlighted in the books of Kings, Chronicles, Ezra, Daniel, Jeremiah, etc.).   

Have you experienced this feeling before? When? What have been the circumstances? 

Foreknowledge: God is fully aware of all events before they occur. Nothing is outside of God’s knowledge (past, present, or future). Nothing is hidden from Him and He knows everything completely. Foreknowledge is often connected to God’s plan of salvation as well as His reign over the universe. 

Considering that we have been God’s chosen people from all eternity, does this change the way we view our circumstances? Even in the midst of hard ones? 

Sanctification: As believers, we receive a new identity, a new heart, and the Spirit to indwell us. The Spirit does a work in setting us apart, for dedicated service to God, as well as aiding in our progressive maturity into Christlikeness. 

There are two things Peter can be addressing here: 1) Initial conversion or 2) The gradual progress in becoming more like Jesus. Which interpretation seems to make the most sense? 

Note: It is entirely possible Peter is meaning both here. The Spirit sets people apart for God, so they may be holy. The Spirit empowers people to live in obedience so that they may grow in holiness. 

Each role of the Trinity is highlighted and introduced in this passage. Based upon this passage, what is the activity of each member? 

 

APPLICATION 

While Peter will later explain the duties a Christian has in the realm of work, marriage, the church, and other relationships, he starts off by explaining the exiles’ identity in God. 

1. Why is it this so important to remember as we further study 1 Peter? 
2. How important is it for Christians to understand that this world is not our home? 
3. What kind of perspective does this remind us to have towards the things of this world?  

 

SESSION 2 - 1 Peter 1:3-12 

👉TEXT FROM ESV (take special note of highlighted text)

Born Again to a Living Hope

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you,

5 who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials,

7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith--more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire--may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

8 Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory,

9 obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

10 Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied about the grace that was to be yours searched and inquired carefully,

11 inquiring what person or time the Spirit of Christ in them was indicating when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories.

12 It was revealed to them that they were serving not themselves but you, in the things that have now been announced to you through those who preached the good news to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven, things into which angels long to look.  👈END OF TEXT

I’m told, verses 3-13 are technically one long sentence in Greek (the original language in which the book was written). This makes it difficult to understand so, to help understand it, here it is from The Message which is a paraphrase that uses contemporary slang from the US rather than a more neutral International English. It does not read like you would expect the Bible to read at all - it's very modern and simple. This is useful to help explain confusing passages.

👉TEXT FROM MSG
A New Life

3-5What a God we have! And how fortunate we are to have him, this Father of our Master Jesus! Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we’ve been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for, including a future in heaven—and the future starts now! God is keeping careful watch over us and the future. The Day is coming when you’ll have it all—life healed and whole.

6-7I know how great this makes you feel, even though you have to put up with every kind of aggravation in the meantime. Pure gold put in the fire comes out of it proved pure; genuine faith put through this suffering comes out proved genuine. When Jesus wraps this all up, it’s your faith, not your gold, that God will have on display as evidence of his victory.

8-9You never saw him, yet you love him. You still don’t see him, yet you trust him—with laughter and singing. Because you kept on believing, you’ll get what you’re looking forward to: total salvation.

10-12The prophets who told us this was coming asked a lot of questions about this gift of life God was preparing. The Messiah’s Spirit let them in on some of it—that the Messiah would experience suffering, followed by glory. They clamored to know who and when. All they were told was that they were serving you, you who by orders from heaven have now heard for yourselves—through the Holy Spirit—the Message of those prophecies fulfilled. Do you realize how fortunate you are? Angels would have given anything to be in on this!  👈END OF TEXT

THINK ABOUT THIS 

How do you usually respond when you receive great news? When we get a phone call or text message about the birth of a new baby, a new job, a promotion, or an engagement, we are often filled with joy in response to what has happened. We struggle to contain the excitement! Much like us, Peter responds in a similar way after speaking of the great salvation that has come to us. Quickly after being reminded of such a great work (verses 1-2), his heart’s response is one of worship. In this passage, we find a wonderful hymn of praise celebrating the new life and future glory for believers. 

1. In moments of doubt and uncertainty, what do you typically lean on for support and security? 
2. Can you think of an example of God’s faithfulness to you in the midst of hardship? 
3. How did this trial show you the genuineness of your faith? 
   
   

READ & DISCUSS 

1 Peter 1:3-12 

In this section, Peter addresses God’s mercy, our new birth, the eternal inheritance waiting for us, and experiencing joy in the face of suffering. Why do you think Peter starts this section with “Blessed be God?” 

In verse 3, Peter mentions being “born again.” What does it mean to be “born again”? See John 3:1-21; Colossians 2:13; 1 John 5:1. How would you answer someone who asked how to be born again? 

What reason does Peter give us as the purpose behind some of the suffering and persecution we experience? See 1:6-7. 

Is it possible to have hope regardless of circumstances? List the reasons given in verses 3-12 for a believer to maintain hope during difficult circumstances. Do these reasons help you have hope? Why or why not? 

This section starts off with Peter celebrating, rejoicing, and praising God. In verse 8, he speaks of joy as inexpressible. Do you share in this? If not, how can you share in Peter’s excitement and joy as expressed in this passage? 

 

APPLICATION 

In his commentary on 1 Peter, John Calvin notes that Peter begins his letter by describing our hope in such strong and bold terms that we may “enjoy the invaluable treasure of a future life; and also, that we may not be broken down by present troubles, but patiently endure them, being satisfied with eternal happiness”. This week, how can you keep this eternal perspective in your conversations, relationships, and other responsibilities?  

 

SESSION 3 - 1 Peter 1:13-2:3 - Obedience and Holiness

Called to Be Holy

13 Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance,

15 but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct,

16 since it is written, "You shall be holy, for I am holy."

17 And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one's deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile,

18 knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold,

19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.

20 He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was made manifest in the last times for the sake of you

21 who through him are believers in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.

22 Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart,

23 since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God;

24 for "All flesh is like grass and all its glory like the flower of grass. The grass withers, and the flower falls,

25 but the word of the Lord remains forever."And this word is the good news that was preached to you.

A Living Stone and a Holy People

1 So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.

2 Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation--

3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.

THINK ABOUT THIS 

In this week’s passage, we begin to see Peter’s instructions on how to live in light of the truths we’ve studied in the first two weeks. Here we discover Peter begins to bring about the practical application of how to relate with God, others, and an unbelieving world. Peter begins to address two subjects that we frequently want to shy away from, Obedience and holiness. It is of the utmost importance that as we study and discuss this passage, we remember that our pursuit of a godly life is rooted and motivated by the great salvation we have already received in Jesus and not in hopes of receiving it, that would be living under the law, not grace. 

Think of your life before you became a Christian. How different is your life now? What is the biggest battle between how you used to live and how you are now called to live? 

 

READ & DISCUSS 

1 Peter 1:13-2:3 

Define holiness (see Leviticus 11:44-45; Psalm 24:3-4; Isaiah 6:1-7; John 14:21). What are some other terms or descriptions that help us define “holy”?  

Peter instructs us to conduct ourselves with fear (verse 17). What is Peter telling us to do here? What role should fear play in our lives? See 1 Peter 1:17; Exodus 20:20; Deuteronomy 5:29; Proverbs 1:7.  

Considering that our salvation came at a great cost (1:18-19), how should this motivate us toward holy living? In 1 Peter 2:1, Peter calls us to rid ourselves of five specific things. What are they? What kind of impact would it have if God’s people truly lived that way? Which would be the most challenging for you? 

While 1 Peter 2:1 tells us what we should rid ourselves of, 1 Peter 2:2-3 tells us what we should be craving. As Christians, what should we be feasting on? What do you find yourself mostly nourishing your soul with? 

 

APPLICATION 

Theologian Wayne Grudem states that “Holiness involves not only avoiding outward sin but also maintaining an instinctive delight in God and his holiness as an undercurrent of heart and mind throughout the day.” How does this shift your thinking and understanding of the pursuit of holiness? 

In what areas of your life are you still struggling to walk in holiness? How can we as a group support one another in this pursuit? 

 

 

SESSION 4 - 1 Peter 2:4-5

4 As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious,

5 you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

"Spiritual house" could refer to the church and being connected as a group of believers. 

When are you or when have you felt most connected to a church group?

What are ways we can connect at church to combat the aloneness that happens as we age? 

"like living stones" 

The Bible makes many general references to “precious stones” and “jewels,” most often as metaphors for such attributes as value, wealth, beauty, and durability.

Exodus 28:17-20 ESV / The Priests' Garments
You shall set in it four rows of stones. A row of sardius, topaz, and carbuncle shall be the first row; and the second row an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond; and the third row a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst; and the fourth row a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. They shall be set in gold filigree.

Josuha 4: 6 that this may be a sign among you. When your children ask in time to come, 'What do those stones mean to you?'

7 then you shall tell them that the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD. When it passed over the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off. So these stones shall be to the people of Israel a memorial forever."

THINK ABOUT THIS 

People long to connect with something of significance. Think about it, people in our area wear jerseys with UK on them to denote their identity as being a fan of the team. People rally around causes to be a part of something greater than themselves. In this passage, Peter begins to describe what we’re a part of as Christians. Peter also gives us a complete description of the Christian life. For Christians, there is to be a continuous coming to Jesus, a life of devotion and sacrifice. While there is a personal component to it, it is imperative we don’t stop there. In our lives and culture, our eyes are often focused on the temporal, the immediate, and ourselves. What Peter begins to do in this passage is move us past the idea of “Me and Jesus” to a more holistic approach to our spiritual growth and understanding of “We and Jesus”. Collectively, believers are a building project of God’s temple here on earth. 

Is involvement and participation in your local church an important part of your spiritual life? 

What role do we personally play in the local church? Is it of any importance? 

 

READ & DISCUSS 

1 Peter 2:4-5 

In verse 4, Peter refers to the regular routine of Christians coming to Jesus. What are some ways we can draw near to His presence? Hear Him speak? 

In the Old Testament, there are many verses that prophesy about Jesus and refer to Him as the stone. See Isaiah 28:16; 51:1-2; Psalm 118:22; Daniel 2:26-35. Considering those prophecies, and what Peter writes here, what are we to understand about Jesus? 

What does it mean that we are a “spiritual house / “holy priesthood”? For what two purposes does a priest exist? 

What are “spiritual sacrifices”? See Romans 12:1; Philippians 4:18; Heb. 13:15-16. 

How does Peter’s description of the church impact your own view of the church? 

 

APPLICATION 

“Church fellowship is not an optional advantage, to be chosen or ignored, like membership in a social club. It is the calling of every Christian. There is a spiritual ‘ethnicity’ to the church of Christ; Christians are blood relatives, joined by the blood of Jesus Christ.” – Edmund Clowney 

While believers individually become a temple of God (1 Cor. 6:19), we are collectively built into a temple along with other believers, where God dwells among us. This week, how can we tangibly experience this, and express it to others?   

 

SESSION 5 - 1 Peter 2:6-12

6 For it stands in Scripture: "Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious, and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame."

7 So the honor is for you who believe, but for those who do not believe, "The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,"

8 and "A stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense. "They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do.

9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.

10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

11 Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul.

12 Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.

LOOK AT SPECIFIC VERSES

Verse 7 says "for you who believe." Knowing and putting our faith in Jesus changes the way we see everything. We’ll see people as God sees them. We’ll discover a personal mission to join God in His rescue plan for the world. Jesus really lived and died and rose again. "Believing" impacts our entire life.

A scripture that tells of Paul and his total lifestyle change is found in Acts 9:1-9. That lifestyle change often takes some time and study. Galatians 1:15-18 15 But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace, was pleased

16 to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, my immediate response was not to consult any human being.

17 I did not go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went into Arabia. Later I returned to Damascus.

18 Then after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Cephas and stayed with him fifteen days. (NOTE: Cephas is Peter)

Verse 12 has the word honorable. Other text tells of specific characters of what it is like to be honorable.

Titus 2:1-3 NIV 1 You, however, must teach what is appropriate to sound doctrine.

2 Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance.

3 Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good.

Verse 11 uses the phrase abstain from passions of the flesh another scripture that expands on this thought is:

Galatians 5:19-21 NIV 19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery;

20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions

21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Here are the same verses in the Message - Galatians 5:19-21 MSG 19 It is obvious what kind of life develops out of trying to get your own way all the time: repetitive, loveless, cheap sex; a stinking accumulation of mental and emotional garbage; frenzied and joyless grabs for happiness;

20 trinket gods; magic-show religion; paranoid loneliness; cutthroat competition; all-consuming-yet-never-satisfied wants; a brutal temper; an impotence to love or be loved; divided homes and divided lives; small-minded and lopsided pursuits;

21 the vicious habit of depersonalizing everyone into a rival; uncontrolled and uncontrollable addictions; ugly parodies of community. I could go on. This isn't the first time I have warned you, you know. If you use your freedom this way, you will not inherit God's kingdom.

THINK ABOUT THIS 

Have you ever noticed that many people in our culture are comfortable talking about God, yet when we turn the conversation to Jesus, people begin to get a little uneasy, defensive, or just completely cut us off? Would you be surprised to find out that this occurs because it was by design? 

In our passage this week, Peter reminds us that Christ is either precious to us and our firm foundation, or he is nothing but a stumbling block. Those who see Jesus as precious, see Him for who He is and what He has done for us. They will live a life that is reflective of this truth and will declare it to those around them. 

Have you ever shared the Gospel with someone? How did it go? 

 

READ & DISCUSS 

1 Peter 2:6-12 

• Verses 6-8 seem to be pointing us to the fact that everyone has a choice between two options. What are they? Why are these the only two options? Which have you chosen? 
• What are other things (besides Jesus), that we have unfortunately put forward as stumbling blocks for unbelievers? (Think of what you’ve heard… “I would go to church but…” “All Christians are…”) 
• In this passage, Peter says that you are chosen, royal, holy, and one of his own people. Does this passage change your sense of value when you see yourself through God’s eyes? How? 
• According to verse 9, what are God’s people supposed to do? 
• In verses 11-12, Peter revisits the subject of proper conduct in a believer’s life. How does obeying God enhance our witness to non-believers? According to Peter, what keeps us from doing this?  

APPLICATION 

Peter encourages the people of God to reveal and proclaim just how excellent our God is. He has rescued us from darkness and shown us great mercy. He has given us a new family, community, and ethics. Our lives are a story of God’s grace, and He uses these stories to draw people to Himself and bring encouragement to fellow believers. If you are so inclined, take a few minutes to write out a short version of your testimony, and consider sharing it with a friend, or in your group. In general, you can use a three-point outline: 

1. Life before knowing Christ 
2. How you came to know Christ 
3. Life after you received Christ (changes He has made, what He means to you now)  

 

SESSION 6 - 1 Peter 2:13-25 & 1 Peter 3:1-7

Submission to Authority

13 Be subject for the Lord's sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme,

14 or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good.

15 For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people.

16 Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.

17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.

18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and gentle but also to the unjust.

19 For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly.

20 For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God.

21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.

22 He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth.

23 When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly.

24 He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.

25 For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

THINK ABOUT THIS 

We will now look at one of the more debated and contested invitations and expectations of the Christian life: a life of submission. In this week’s passage, we see practical exhortations from Peter regarding how Christians are to relate to the authorities that are in place above us.

This scripture addresses political, governmental, and work authorities. What’s surprising about Peter’s instruction is that it flies in the face of what we would expect or even want.  

Think about it this way it was just a few decades earlier when political rulers abdicated their responsibility and had Jesus crucified. In Acts 12, a king puts out a plan to arrest Peter and kill him. Yet Peter calls us to respect those in authority and invites us to see things from a different perspective.

 

How do you respond to authorities in your life, even if they appear unjust, incompetent, or harsh? Why do you think that we as 21st Century Americans have difficulty with the concept of submission? 

 

READ & DISCUSS 

1 Peter 2:13-25 

• According to Scripture, what is the reason Christians are to submit? See verse 15 and Romans 13:1-5.  
• Is there ever a reason for Christians to NOT submit? See Daniel 3:8-12; Daniel 6:6-10; Acts 4:18-20. 
• According to the Scriptures, is submission based on the worthiness of the one who is being submitted to? Does it imply inferiority to the one who is submitting? See 1 Corinthians 15:28; Philippians 2:5-11. What do you think Peter is calling for, in 1 Peter 2:16? 
• In verses 21-25, Peter grounds his whole argument in the example that Christ has set for us. How does the promise of suffering and hardship as you follow Christ bring you comfort, yet also challenge you?  

APPLICATION 

In verse 17 of this passage, Peter gives us four clearly expressed commands. What are they? What are practical examples of how we can do this as Christians? 

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Note about 1 Peter 3:1-7: Because of our age and experience, we will not be discussing this next passage about wives and husbands, but it is shown here so that it is not skipped.

1 Peter 3:1-7

1Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives, 2when they see the purity and reverence of your lives. 3Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. 4Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. 5For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to adorn themselves. They submitted themselves to their own husbands, 6like Sarah, who obeyed Abraham and called him her lord. You are her daughters if you do what is right and do not give way to fear.

7Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.

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SESSION 7 - 1 Peter 3:8-22

Suffering for Righteousness' Sake

8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.

9 Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.

10 For "Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit;

11 let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it.

12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."

13 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good?

14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled,

15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,

16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.

17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God's will, than for doing evil.

18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit,

19 in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison,

20 because they formerly did not obey, when God's patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water.

21 Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,

22 who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him.

THINK ABOUT THIS 

In this section of the text, Peter calls Christians to suffer well and know that there is no reason to fear, for we can find blessings during it. Peter is seeking to bring assurance that we too will experience victory over sin and death because of our union with Jesus. 

 

While we’ve been studying 1 Peter, we’ve interacted with some difficult texts. Not difficult because they were hard to understand, but difficult because it is hard to live out what they call us to. This week, we experience a difficult passage once again, but this time it was because it was hard to understand. Many scholars still debate the meaning behind Peter’s teachings in 18-22.  

How do you typically respond when you’ve been mistreated, slandered, or insulted? 

 

READ & DISCUSS 

1 Peter 3:8-22 

• In verses 8-9, Peter addresses the covenant community of believers. He gives a summary of the characteristics of the believing community. Do you think this could be said about us? 
• What does it mean to suffer for the sake of righteousness? verse 14
• In verse 15, Peter says we should be ready to make a defense for the hope we have. Do you feel prepared to give an answer? When was the last time you had the opportunity to do so?  
• Verse 18 is one of the most to-the-point descriptions of what Jesus has done for us. Can you explain in your own words the truths we learn about in this verse? Peter is linking believers with Noah (Genesis 6-8) in the latter part of this passage. Both Peter’s audience and Noah were considered a minority in a hostile world. Peter is saying Christians can be sure that they are safe when judgment comes. As Noah was delivered, we too will be delivered because of Jesus’ victory over sin and death. As Christians, how should this encourage people facing unjust suffering? 

 

APPLICATION 

What are some ways you can live with greater harmony and sympathy for others in your community this week? 

 

 

SESSION 8 - 1 Peter 4:1-11

Stewards of God's Grace

1 Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin,

2 so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God.

3 For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry.

4 With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you;

5 but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

6 For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does.

7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers.

8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.

9 Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.

10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace:

11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies--in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

THINK ABOUT THIS 

We can measure the quality of our life by the quality of our relationships. As Christians, we experience a relationship with God, other Christians, and those who don’t believe. Much of the highs and lows in our lives are typically directly connected to how we are doing in these relationships. This week Peter continues encouraging the church to examine their relationships and the manner in which they interact. 

• By looking at someone’s life, do you think it is easy to tell whether they are a Christian or not? 
• How do you typically respond when you’ve been mistreated, slandered, or insulted? 

READ & DISCUSS 

1 Peter 4:1-11 

• In verse 2, Peter tells us to live in a specific way for the rest of our lives. What is it? And how do we go about doing it? In what ways have you been pursuing the will of God versus the will of man? 
• In verse 4, Peter states that there should be a distinct difference between the way Christians live, versus how the rest of the world lives. Has anyone ever been surprised when you decided not to partake in something due to your faith? 
• List the commands Peter gives in verses 7-11.   Do you see any similarities or common themes in these commands? Which of these commands do you find hard to obey? Why? 
• In verse 8, Peter talks about love covering a multitude of sins. How have you seen love cover a multitude of sins in your life? See Proverbs 10:12; James 5:20. 
• This passage brings about a lot of instruction and direction for believers. What is one practical change the Spirit is inviting you to make as you read and discuss this? 

 

APPLICATION 

While this passage is filled with practical applications for believers, it also concludes with a wonderful doxology. A doxology is simply a short hymn of praise that celebrates and thanks, God. Peter’s song of praise here is not a wish, but a statement of fact. It helps root and anchor all the commands given. We don’t follow God’s commandments for our own glory; but that Christ may be glorified in us. Take time to reflect upon why Peter is praising God, and see how you can do so likewise in your life this week.  

 

SESSION 9 - 1 Peter 4:12-19

Suffering as a Christian

12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.

13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.

14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.

15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler.

16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.

17 For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?

18 And "If the righteous is scarcely saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?"

19 Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.

THINK ABOUT THIS 

Are you someone who loves surprises? Whether it is a surprise party or a surprise gift, nothing excites you more than the spontaneity of receiving something that is unexpected? Or do you dread the idea of being caught off guard and avoiding surprises at all costs? Within this passage, Peter calls to attention something that none of us should be surprised by: trials. Actually, not just trials, but fiery and painful trials. Yet what we see this week is that it’s not all for naught God has a purpose for it. What Peter writes here helps give us perspective.

• Can you think of a time when you were surprised by a trial in your life? When was it, and how did you respond? 
• What is your initial response to suffering? 

READ & DISCUSS 

1 Peter 4:12-19 

• Unfortunately, today there is a popular teaching and belief in Christianity that God simply wants us to be happy, rich, successful, etc. How does this passage correct this unhelpful and unbiblical teaching? 
• According to this passage, what is God’s view on, and purpose for, suffering? 
• What is Peter’s expectation of Christians when they experience suffering? 
• How does verse 19 help summarize this passage and encourage us? 
• How can Peter’s words help us from becoming discouraged when suffering, hardship, and trials come? 

 

APPLICATION 

In verse 19, Peter gives two calls to action. What are they? What are the ways you can do this?  

SESSION 10 - 1 Peter 5:1-5

Shepherd the Flock of God

1 So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed:

2 shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly;

3 not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.

4 And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

5 Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."

THINK ABOUT THIS 

It seems like we cannot go a week without hearing about the fall and disqualification of a pastor somewhere. Sadly, in recent years, the misuse of power and abuse of churches and their leaders have plagued the headlines of newspapers and television shows. While healthy leadership is essential for any organization, how much more important is it for the church to have it? In this week’s passage, we get to explore the roles and expectations placed on church leaders. Peter lays out for us what to look for, what to avoid, and how to follow.

When all is said and done, we must remember that Jesus is still the chief Shepherd of the church, no matter to whom He has delegated authority to in the local church. 

What are the qualities and characteristics that you look for in a great leader? 

Should we expect to see a difference between leadership in the church and in the world? 

 

READ & DISCUSS 

1 Peter 5:1-5 

• Why do you think Peter uses the imagery of a shepherd when speaking about the role of a church leader? See Matthew 9:36; Isaiah 53:6; John 10:1-17. 
• What are some principles for leadership found in verses 1-5? Note: Look at what Peter highlights for what ought and ought not to be done. 
• Peter says leaders are to be an example to the flock. Exactly how are leaders to be examples to the flock? See Ezekiel 34:1-22; 1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9. 
• While most of this passage is specifically addressing the elders, there is some instruction about the church’s responsibility to respond in verse 5. Hebrews 13:7 and 13:17 provide further insight into the relationship dynamics between the church and its leader. How do these verses help further clarify the role between the church member and their leader? 
• Hebrews 13:7 - Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. (ESV) 
• Hebrews 13:17 - Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you. (ESV)  

APPLICATION 

This week, spend time praying for our elders, pastors, and church leaders. Pray for them to live a life worthy of the calling and that they may exhibit the qualities Peter emphasizes. Find a way to encourage one of our leaders this week. 

 

 

SESSION 11 - 1 Peter 5:6-14

5    .... "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."

6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you,

7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.

10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

11 To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Final Greetings

12 By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it.

13 She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son.

14 Greet one another with the kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.

THINK ABOUT THIS  

At the conclusion of a letter, there are usually parting words to help reinforce what we were seeking to communicate throughout our entire correspondence.

Here, we find Peter concludes his letter in a similar fashion. A little bit of instruction, a little bit of encouragement, and a closing prayer and blessing.

“That same hand of God which presses us down is waiting to raise us up when we are prepared to bear the blessing. We stoop to conquer. Many cringe before men and yet miss the patronage they crave; but he that humbles himself under the hand of God shall not fail to be enriched, uplifted, sustained, and comforted by the ever-gracious One.” – Charles Spurgeon 

 

THINK ABOUT 

 

Have you experienced a time in your life when God’s care for your concerns was obvious? 

 

READ & DISCUSS 

1 Peter 5:6-14 

• What does it mean to humble yourself under God?  
• Are there any anxieties that you need to cast upon God? Read Matthew 11:28-30 – does reading Jesus’ words here help you believe that God really cares for you?
• Three times in this letter, Peter tells us to be “sober-minded” (1 Peter 1:13; 4:7; 5:8). Why do you think Peter keeps repeating this? 
• How does Peter describe Satan in verses 8-9? What are some other ways in which he is described throughout Scripture? See John 8:44; Ephesians 2:2; 1 John 3:8; Revelation 12:9. 
• What are some ways in which we can resist him? See James 4:7-10; Ephesians 6:10-20.  
• The letter concludes with yet another reminder that suffering and hardship on this earth are temporary and that God will restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. What do you think Peter is attempting to communicate to us with these four different verbs?  

APPLICATION 

1 Peter 5:12 can provide as a wonderful summary of the whole book of 1 Peter. His writing exhorts and declares that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it.

 

DEFINITION

The glory of God is the magnificence, worth, loveliness, and grandeur of his many perfections, which he displays in his creative and redemptive acts in order to make his glory known to those in his presence.

SUMMARY

The glory of God is interwoven throughout the biblical story and forms the origin, content, and goal of the entire cosmic narrative. God’s glory is the magnificence, worth, loveliness, and grandeur of his many perfections. God communicates his glory through his creation, image-bearers, providence, and redemptive acts. God’s people respond by glorifying him. God receives glory and, through uniting his people to Christ, shares his glory with them. And all of this contributes to his glory, as God in his manifold perfections is exhibited, known, rejoiced in, and prized.

The Glory of God

The glory of God is a magnificent biblical theme. It is addressed in every major biblical section, related to every major biblical doctrine, and interwoven throughout the biblical story. It is so central to Scripture that the story of the Bible is in some sense the drama of God’s glory.

The Centrality of Glory

Many key turning points in the biblical story stress God’s glory and attest to its varied manifestations. God’s glory is revealed through creation (Gen. 1; Ps. 19:1–2; Rom. 1:18–25); is identified with humans’s creation in the image of God, crowned with glory (Gen. 1–2; Ps. 8:3–5; 1 Cor. 11:7); is linked to the exodus (Exod. 3; 13:31; 16:10; 24:9–18; 34:29), to fire/ shining/bright light (Exod. 3; 13:31; 16:10; 24:9–18; 34:29; Lev. 9:23; Isa. 60:1–3; 60:19; Ezek. 1:28; 10:4; 43:2; Luke 2:9; 2 Cor. 3:7; 4:4–6; Heb. 1:3; Rev. 18:1; 21:11, 23), to a cloud (Exod. 16:7, 10; 24:16; 40:34; Lev. 9:6, 23; Num. 14:21; 16:19, 42; 20:6; Deut. 5:22–24; 1 Kings 8:10; 2 Chron. 5:14; Luke 9:26–36; Acts 1:8–11), and to the Sabbath (Exod. 19, 24); is revealed to Moses (Exod. 33:18–23); fills the tabernacle (Exod. 40:34; cf. Lev. 9:6, 23; Num. 14:21; 16:19, 42; 20:6); fills the earth (Num. 14:20–23; Ps. 19:1–2; Isa. 6:3); fills the temple (1 Kings 8:11); is above the heavens (Ps. 8:1; 113:4); is revealed in visions to Isaiah (Isa. 6:1–5) and Ezekiel (Ezek. 1:28; 3:12, 23; 8:4; 9:3; 10:4, 18; 11:22); and is identified with God’s people, Israel (Isa. 40:5; 43:6–7; 60:1).

Glory is also identified with Christ. It is linked to his incarnation (John 1:1–18; Mark 9:2; Heb. 1:3), birth narratives (Luke 2:9, 14, 32), miracles (John 2:11; 11:38–44), transfiguration (Matt. 17:1–13; Mark 9:2–13; Luke 9:28–36; 2 Pet. 1:16–21), suffering and crucifixion (John 7:39; 12:16, 23–28; 13:31–32; 17:1–5; 21:19; Luke 24:26; Rom. 3:25–26; 1 Pet. 1:10–11), resurrection/exaltation (Acts 3:13–15; Rom. 6:4; Phil. 2:5–11; Heb. 2:5–9; 1 Pet. 1:21; Rev. 5:12–13; cf. Acts 2:32–33; 3:13; 1 Tim. 3:16), ascension (Acts 1; 1 Tim. 3:16), session/reign (Stephen’s vision in Acts 7:55–56; Mark 10:37), and coming/victory/judgment (Matt. 16:27; 19:28; 24:30; 25:31; Mark 8:38; 10:37; 13:26; Luke 9:26; 21:27; Rom. 8:21; Titus 2:13; 2 Thess. 1:6–9).

Further, glory is identified with the Holy Spirit (1 Pet. 4:14; cf. John 16:14; Eph. 1:13–14); is identified with the church (Eph. 1:22–23; 3:20–21; 5:22–29); and is manifested in the new creation (Isa. 66; Rom. 8:18–27; Rev. 21–22). (For more, see Christopher W. Morgan, “Toward a Theology of the Glory of God,” in The Glory of God, 153–56.)

The Meaning of Glory

With such wide-ranging manifestations, glory is virtually impossible to define. In a sense, God’s glory is the magnificence, worth, loveliness, and grandeur of his many perfections. More often, glory communicates God’s special presence, as in the pillars of glory and of fire (Exod. 13:21–22) or the glory that filled the Tabernacle (40:34–38).

The primary Hebrew term for glory is kabod. This word stems from a root that means “weight” or “heaviness.” Depending on its form, it could have the sense of “honorable,” “dignified,” “exalted,” or “revered.” C. John Collins explains that it became a “technical term for God’s manifest presence.” It is similar in many respects to the concept of God’s name in the Old Testament (see “kabod” in New International Dictionary of Old Testament Theology and Exegesis).

The primary Greek term for glory is doxa. According to Sverre Aalen, doxa in secular Greek referred to an “opinion,” “conjecture,” “repute,” “praise,” or “fame.” He maintains that the concepts were transformed by the Septuagint. Aalen also maintains that doxa translated kabod and took on the same meaning, referring to God’s manifestation of his person, presence, and/or works, especially his power, judgment, and salvation (see the entry on “doxa” in New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology).

It is also helpful to notice that the glory of God is sometimes used in the Bible as an adjective, sometimes a noun, and sometimes a verb. God is glorious (adjective), reveals his glory (noun), and is to be glorified (verb).

Further, God’s glory is intrinsic and extrinsic. God’s intrinsic glory refers to the inherent glory that belongs to him alone as God, independent of his works. He is glorious in his perfections; he is magnificent; he is beautiful. God’s extrinsic glory is his intrinsic glory partially communicated in his works of creation, providence, redemption, and consummation.

Even more particularly, the triune God who is glorious displays his glory, largely through his creation, image-bearers, providence, and redemptive acts. God’s people respond by glorifying him. God receives glory and, through uniting his people to Christ, shares his glory with them—all to his glory.

The Senses of Glory

Clearly, then, the Bible uses glory in multiple senses.

First, glory is used as a designation for God himself. For example, Peter refers to God the Father as the “Majestic Glory” (2 Pet. 1:17). This rare phrase seems to be a Hebrew approach to referring to God without stating his name.

Second, glory sometimes refers to an internal characteristic, attribute, or a summary of the attributes of God. This sense would be similar to saying that glory is sometimes used as an adjective. God is intrinsically glorious in the sense of fullness, sufficiency, majesty, beauty, and splendor. Examples of this sense are used throughout Scripture. The Psalms refers to God as the “King of glory” (24:7–10) as well as the “God of glory” (29:3). Stephen refers to the “God of glory” (Acts 7:2), and the apostle Paul prays to the “Father of glory” (Eph. 1:17). James makes reference to Jesus as the “Lord of glory” or the “glorious Lord,” depending on how one renders the Greek. Either way, the point is the same: like the Father, Jesus is characterized by glory. The Spirit, also, is identified with glory (1 Pet. 4:14; cf. John 16:14; Eph. 1:13–14), especially through the language of presence, indwelling, and temple (John 14–16; Rom. 8:9–11; 1 Cor. 3:16; 6:19–20; 14:24–25; 2 Cor. 6:16; Eph. 2:11–22; 5:18; 1 Thess. 4:8).

Third, Scripture speaks of glory as God’s presence. This understanding of glory is unmistakable in the events surrounding the exodus. The glory cloud (Exod. 13–14; 16:7; 20; 24; cf. Rev. 15:8), the manifestations to Moses (Exod. 3–4; 32–34), and God’s presence in the tabernacle (Exod. 29:43; 40:34–38) all highlight God’s covenant presence. This connotation of God’s glory also emerges in passages related to the ark of the covenant (1 Samuel 4–5), the temple (1 Kings 8:10–11; 2 Chron 5–7), the eschatological temple in Ezekiel (43:1–5), the person of Christ (John 1:1–18; Col. 1–2; Heb 1), the Holy Spirit (John 14–16), and heaven itself (Rev. 21–22).

Fourth, the Bible often depicts glory as the display of God’s attributes, perfections, or person. John’s Gospel speaks of glory in this way, as Jesus performs “signs” that demonstrate his glory (2:11). The Word uses various terms for this notion, but the idea is clear: God glorifies himself in displaying himself. As God puts his works on display, he glorifies himself. His mercy, grace, justice, and wrath are all revealed through salvation and judgment (cf. Rom. 9:20–23; Eph. 2:4–10).

A fifth sense or concept is of glory as the ultimate goal of the display of God’s attributes, perfections, or person. Exodus and Ezekiel are abounding with passages that unfold God’s actions for the sake of his name, that people will know he is the Lord. Jesus informs that Lazarus’s death and subsequent resurrection had an ultimate purpose: it was for the glory of God (John 11:4; cf. 14:13). Peter’s death also shared this purpose (John 21:19). Paul points out that God chooses, adopts, redeems, and seals believers “to the praise of the glory of his grace” (Eph. 1:6, 12, 14). That is, in saving a people for himself, God displays his grace, and in displaying his grace he brings glory to himself. Further, the whole Trinitarian plan of redemption displays this goal, as seen in the mutual glorification of each person of the Trinity. The glorious Father sends the glorious Son, who voluntarily humbles himself and glorifies the Father through his incarnation, obedient life, and substitutionary death (Phil. 2:5–11; cf. John 6, 10, 17). In response the Father glorifies the Son, resurrecting him from the dead and exalting him to the highest place (Acts 3:13–15; Rom. 6:4; Phil. 2:9–11). The Father sends the glorious Spirit, who glorifies the Son (John 16:14), which all contributes to the glory of the Father (Phil. 2:11).

Sixth, glory sometimes points to heaven, the heavenly, or the eschatological consummation of the full experience of the presence of God. Hebrews 2:10 speaks of “bringing many sons to glory,” and Philippians 4:19 presents the covenant promise, “My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (cf. Eph. 3:16). The people of God will ultimately receive glory, honor, immortality, and eternal life, which can all be used somewhat synonymously (Rom. 2:7). Such glory was prepared for God’s people in eternity (Rom. 9:23). Jesus is also said to be “taken up in glory” (1 Tim. 3:16), which could be understood as “to heaven,” as “gloriously,” or as a combination of the two. The bodies of believers, too, will be raised “in glory” (1 Cor. 15:43), and faithful elders will receive an unfading crown of glory (1 Pet. 5:4).

Seventh, giving glory to God also may refer to an appropriate response to God in the form of worship, exaltation, or exultation. Psalm 29:2 urges, “Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name.” At Jesus’ birth, after God’s glory shines (Luke 2:9), the heavenly host resounds with “glory to God in the highest” (Luke 2:14), and the shepherds are “glorifying and praising God” (Luke 2:20). Further, the Bible is filled with doxologies, such as Romans 16:27, that accentuate our need to give glory to God: “To the only wise God be glory forevermore through Christ Jesus” (cf. Rom. 11:36; Gal. 1:5; Eph. 3:20–21; Phil. 4:20; 2 Tim. 4:18; Jude 24–25; Rev. 1:5–6). Some doxologies are directed toward Christ (2 Pet. 3:18; cf. Heb. 13:21). Similarly, other passages instruct God’s people to glory in Christ (2 Cor. 10:17), in his cross (Gal. 6:14), and in suffering by virtue of their union with Christ (2 Cor. 11–12). Glorifying God is an expected and fitting response of God’s people (Matt. 5:13–16; 15:31; Mark 2:12; Luke 4:15; John 15:8). Christians are even commanded to glorify God in their bodies (1 Cor. 6:20), in their food and drink choices along with their corresponding relationships (1 Cor. 10:31), and in the proper exercise of spiritual gifts (1 Pet. 4:11). Romans 14–15 underlines the importance of the church glorifying God with a unified voice and points to the truth that as the church displays unity to the glory of God (15:6–7), the Gentiles will glorify God (15:8–9; cf. Rev 4–5).

So, the triune God who is glorious joyfully, and gracious communicates his glory, largely through his creation, image-bearers, providence, and redemptive acts. God’s people respond by glorifying him. God receives glory and, through uniting his people to Christ, shares his glory with them. And all of this contributes to his glory, as God in his manifold perfections is exhibited, known, rejoiced in, and prized.

https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/essay/the-glory-of-god/

Pain and Suffering vs. Physical Injuries

13 Examples of Pain and Suffering that may apply to a personal injury case.

1. Physical Impairment
2. Physical Pain
3. Disfigurement
4. Loss of Quality of Life
5. Loss of Enjoyment of Life
6. Grief
7. Depression
8. Anger
9. Anxiety
10. Inconvenience
11. Embarrassment, Humiliation, or Indignity
12. Sexual Dysfunction
13. Loss of Companionship